Braided bun with raisins - for Easter

Braided Raisin Bread - A Special Recipe for Easter

When it comes to Easter celebrations, nothing compares to the aroma and taste of braided raisin bread. This dish is not just a simple bread, but a symbol of joy and gathering with loved ones. With its fluffy texture and sweet flavor, the braided bread quickly becomes a star on the Easter table. Let's discover together how to prepare it, step by step.

Preparation time: 20 minutes
Baking time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 1 hour
Servings: 8

Ingredients

- 420 g all-purpose flour (choose a high-quality flour with a higher gluten content for a fluffier texture)
- 120 g sugar (sugar enhances the flavor and helps brown the dough)
- 20 g fresh yeast (make sure it's fresh for optimal rising)
- 1 egg (to give a nice color and flavor)
- 100 ml warm milk (the milk should be lukewarm, not hot, to avoid killing the yeast)
- 100 g butter (melted, for added flavor)
- 1 teaspoon grated lemon zest (for a fresh aroma)
- 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract (provides a delicate flavor)
- A handful of raisins (soaked in warm milk and optionally with a few drops of rum)
- 1 egg yolk (for brushing the bread before baking)

Preparing the Dough

1. Prepare the ingredients: Gather all the necessary ingredients and ensure they are at room temperature. This will help with better yeast activation.

2. Mix the dry ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the flour with the sugar and grated lemon zest. This mixture will add a subtle aroma and contribute to the final taste of the bread.

3. Prepare the yeast mixture: In a small bowl, dissolve the yeast in two tablespoons of warm milk and add a tablespoon of sugar. Let it sit for 10 minutes until a foam forms on the surface. This is a sign that the yeast is active and ready to be used.

4. Combine the ingredients: In the bowl with the flour, add the activated yeast mixture, the beaten egg, vanilla extract, and the remaining milk. Also, add the melted butter and the raisins (drained of excess milk).

5. Knead the dough: Start kneading the dough with your hands or using a dough hook mixer. Knead for about 10 minutes until the dough becomes smooth and elastic. A good technique is to stretch the dough and fold it, repeating this process until it becomes uniform.

6. Let the dough rise: Cover the bowl with a clean, damp towel and let it sit in a warm place for 30-45 minutes, until the dough doubles in size. A warm room or near a warm, turned-off oven are excellent places for the dough to rise.

Shaping the Bread

1. Divide the dough: Once the dough has risen, divide it in half and then each half into 3 equal parts. This will give you 6 pieces of dough.

2. Shape the rolls: Roll each piece of dough into a long cylinder, similar to a pizza roll. Make sure the rolls are approximately the same size for even baking.

3. Braid the rolls: Take the 3 rolls and braid them together, forming a tight braid. At the end, join the ends to form a circle.

4. Prepare the baking tray: Place the braided bread on a baking tray lined with parchment paper. In the center of the bread, place a piece of aluminum foil to keep the center hollow during baking. This trick is essential for achieving a nice, even shape.

Baking

1. Preheat the oven: Preheat the oven to 180°C (350°F). It is important to have the oven well heated before placing the bread inside for even baking.

2. Brush with egg yolk: Before putting the bread in the oven, brush it with a beaten egg yolk. This will give it a golden, appetizing crust.

3. Bake the bread: Place the tray in the oven and bake for 30-40 minutes. Check the bread after 15 minutes; if you notice it's browning too quickly, cover it with a piece of parchment paper to prevent burning.

4. Toothpick test: After 30 minutes, perform the toothpick test. Insert a toothpick into the center of the bread; if it comes out clean, the bread is ready. If not, leave it in the oven for a few more minutes.

Serving

Once the bread has cooled, it is ready to be enjoyed! Serve it warm or at room temperature, alongside a big cup of milk or a fragrant coffee. The sweet taste and fluffy texture are perfect for bringing the family together around the table.

Tips and Variations

- Add flavor: If you want to experiment, try adding some chopped nuts or ground almonds to the dough for extra texture and flavor.
- Different sweetness: Instead of raisins, you can use dried strawberries or cranberries to diversify the flavors.
- Elegant serving: The bread can be dusted with powdered sugar for a classy look. Serve it as a dessert at the end of the Easter meal.

Nutritional Benefits

This braided raisin bread is a good source of carbohydrates, providing energy, while the raisins add antioxidants and fiber. The butter adds healthy fats, contributing to a balanced diet when consumed in moderation.

Frequently Asked Questions

- Can I use dry yeast instead of fresh yeast? Yes, you can use dry yeast, but make sure to follow the instructions on the package to activate the yeast.
- How can I keep the bread fresh? Store it in an airtight container at room temperature to maintain moisture.
- Can I freeze the bread? Yes, the bread can be frozen. Make sure it is completely cooled and well wrapped in plastic wrap and then placed in a freezer bag.

I hope this braided raisin bread recipe becomes a favorite in your Easter celebrations and beyond! Cooking is an art filled with joy, and each loaf prepared tells a story of its own. Enjoy!